Columbia Museum of Art September 2026 Calendar

EXHIBITIONS

Body Matters
On view August 22, 2026, through January 3, 2027
The human body is essential to craft. This genre of art is rooted in physical labor, tactile knowledge, and material intimacy, and the resulting pieces are often intended to protect our bodies or to assist in nourishing them.

Building on that foundation, this exhibition presents works made of wood, ceramics, glass, textiles, and sweetgrass, and foregrounds their bodily resonance in terms of method of making as well as subject matter. The artists, both historical and contemporary, reveal their deep engagement with the body through figural representations and objects that address life cycles and support bodily functions. Likewise, they leave the marks of their own bodies through the labor of creation — the gestures (or lack thereof), repetitions, and physical engagement that shape each piece.

Body Matters celebrates the importance of the hand in handwork and encourages viewers to consider their own relationships with objects both in and outside the galleries. This exhibition is part of Handwork 2026, Craft in America’s nationwide semiquincentennial collaboration showcasing the importance of the handmade and celebrating the diversity of craft that defines America.

Body Matters is presented through the support of our generous sponsors and grantors. Silver Sponsors: Dr. Suzanne R. Thorpe and Dr. John W. Baynes. Bronze sponsors: Abacus Planning Group; Suzanne and Robert Clawson; Maynard Nexsen PC; Beth and Matthew Richardson; Brenda and Rick Wheeler. Patron Sponsor: Joseph Bruce. Grantors: City of Columbia; Experience Columbia SC; Richland County Government; South Carolina Arts Commission; Discover South Carolina.

Pat Steir: Gravity Makes the Image
On view through January 3, 2027
The artist Pat Steir (American, 1938–2026) merged the formal breakthroughs of postwar abstraction — utilizing drips, pours, and expressive paint handling — in a uniquely meditative style. She arrived at her most well-known process in the 1980s when she initiated the Waterfall series, flinging thinned paint onto vertical canvas and allowing it to drip freely. This practice navigated the painterly tension between controlled movements and chance. Speaking of her methods, she once explained, “The paint itself makes the picture…Gravity makes the image.”

This presentation of Steir’s work is drawn from the CMA Collection and shown on the occasion of her recent passing. The paintings on view reflect Steir’s innovative techniques; conceptually, they register spiritual underpinnings present in nature. In pared down compositions emphasizing color and evoking the fluidity of water, the artist strikes a lyrical balance between emptiness and form.

Richard Samuel Roberts: A Columbia Legacy
On view through February 21, 2027
Richard Samuel Roberts (1880–1936) established his photo studio at 1119 Washington Street in Columbia in 1922. He was one of only a few professional African American photographers operating in the South at that time and counted the burgeoning Black middle class as his patrons. Largely self-taught, Roberts possessed a keen eye for detail and composition, elegantly posing his sitters in a manner that exuded dignity and grace.

In 1977, Roberts’ work was rediscovered in Columbia’s Arsenal Hill neighborhood, when over 3,000 glass plate negatives were found stacked together in the crawl space of his family home. Over the course of the next decade, the plates were restored under the auspices of the University of South Carolina, once more bringing to life the contributions of this important photographer. The images on view here were reproduced from the original plates.

The CMA held a major exhibition showcasing over 130 of Roberts’ photographs in 1986. Coinciding with the city’s bicentennial year, the opening reception of Richard Samuel Roberts: A True Likeness remains one of the most celebrated in the museum’s history. The exhibition thereafter traveled to numerous venues across the country, cementing Roberts’ legacy on the national stage.

Winston Wingo: Who Would We Be/Who Could We Be?
On view through March 4, 2027
Since the 1970s, Winston Wingo (b. 1952, Spartanburg, SC) has explored the tension between technology and humanity in a dynamic series of sculptural heads. These bronze-cast cyborgs embody the contrast between industrial and organic forms. They appear rigid, rendered with mechanical precision — angular planes, geometric incisions resembling computer circuitry, and metallic patinas that recall the sleek energy of machines. At the same time, they retain human features, a sense of movement, and seemingly pliable textures reminiscent of fingers in clay.

Wingo draws inspiration for his series from art history. His chosen method of lost-wax casting is inspired by the bronzes that adorned the royal palace of the Kingdom of Benin. This reference to African art is both a means of affirming ancestral ties and asserting Black identity through material permanence. Twentieth-century Italian Futurism serves as a further source; where the Futurists beckoned the machine age to renounce the past, Wingo invites us to critique technology as a departure from humanity.

Though Wingo began his series decades before the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), his work today feels more relevant than ever (and perhaps even prescient) for its rich social and political content. Seen through the lens of Afrofuturism, a cultural movement that engages Black concerns in dialogue with technology, Wingo’s heads manifest as monuments to Black futurity. They encourage the viewer to envision worlds in which Black bodies are not erased or mythologized but centered in conversations around societal advancement.

PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
To purchase tickets or register for classes, visit columbiamuseum.org or call 803-799-2810.

Book a Tour and Save
Gather some friends and enjoy discounted admission as you get an inside look at our exhibitions or collection with a docent-led tour. Details at columbiamuseum.org/tours.

Multisensory Tours
Multisensory Tours provide an opportunity for visitors who are blind or have low vision to experience the diverse work in the CMA Collection. Explore the galleries with a skilled museum educator trained to provide detailed verbal description of the work on view, while experiencing a selection of objects through touch and other senses.

Multisensory Tours are available to visitors who are blind or partially sighted in groups of 5 to 10. These 90-minute tours take place when the galleries are closed to the general public and require four weeks’ advance notice to schedule. To book a tour call 803-343-2163 or email [email protected].

Gladys’ Gang Toddler Edition: Hats Off!
Wednesday, September 2 | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
From halos to hard hats, we have no shortage of headwear in the galleries. Join us as we discover what these colorful coverings can tell us before we make our own wearable works of art. Gladys’ Gang is specially designed for 2- to 3-year-old participants and their adult companions to explore art through movement and play. This program includes story time, gallery exploration, and a creative studio activity related to the theme. Free. Registration required for all participants as space is limited. Siblings welcome! This program is supported in part by grants from Publix Super Markets Charities and the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation.

Evening for Educators: Body Matters
Wednesday, September 2 | 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Educators from across the state are invited to the CMA for an evening of art, wine, and nibbles as they enjoy exclusive access to new featured exhibition Body Matters, part of Handwork 2026, Craft in America’s nationwide semiquincentennial collaboration. Hear from Jane Schwantes, an accomplished ceramicist and retired educator who served as the art teacher at Logan Elementary, an ABC school. She discusses how handmade objects tell stories about the maker and their society as well as how student makers can use craft to invent solutions, write stories, and reflect on the world they live in. Educators are invited to explore the galleries, learn about tour experiences, and try out lesson plan materials focusing on the new exhibition. Free. Space is limited so registration is required. Attendees receive documentation for professional development renewal credit. Presented by Palmetto Citizens Federal Credit Union.

Free First Thursday at the CMA
Thursday, September 3 | 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Enjoy free admission, extended hours, and a 6:00 p.m. tour of featured exhibition Body Matters. Last gallery entry at 7:30 p.m. Free admission courtesy of Art Bridges Access for All Program and Lexington Health.

College Mixer
Thursday, September 3 | 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Calling all undergrads! Gather for an evening of artistic fun, giveaways, and unforgettable memories at your museum. College students are invited to dive into the vibrant world of art at the CMA and enjoy a variety of exciting activities and chances to connect and have a great time. Foster your creative side with interactive art activities like art stations, a scavenger hunt, and collaborative playlists. Peruse the racks at the Ageless Vintage and Pannerpete Vintage pop-ups for some stylish clothing. Bop to sets from DJ Wandergirl and find new tunes to keep you going during those late-night study sessions at the Papa Jazz Record Shoppe pop-up. Get informed at tables from the Harriet Hancock Center, Richland Library, and About Face Art League. Stop by the refreshment bar for a mocktail or soda (two drink vouchers included). Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the fascinating world of art, connect with your peers and community, and have a blast. This event is open to all college students (be sure to bring your student ID) and young adults. Free as part of Free First Thursday at the CMA. Generous support provided by Art Bridges Foundation’s Access for All program and Lexington Health.

Public Tour of Body Matters
Thursday, September 3 | 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Take a tour of featured exhibition Body Matters, which explores craft and its relationship to the human body through roughly 70 objects spanning time periods and cultures. Body Matters celebrates the importance of the hand in handwork and encourages viewers to consider their own relationships with objects both inside and outside the galleries. Free as part of Free First Thursday at the CMA.

Pilates in the Galleries
Tuesdays, September 8 and 22 | 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
It’s back! End your day with a restorative full-body Pilates session surrounded by inspiring works of art in the CMA Collection galleries. Led by Michaela Leung, who has been practicing Pilates since 2018 and began her comprehensive Pilates certification in 2023, these classes combine classical Pilates principles with contemporary movement for a balanced, mindful workout. Each session includes exercises to strengthen the core, improve flexibility, and enhance posture, with modifications offered for all experience levels. Leung’s fun, energizing playlists — from hip-hop to indie — keep the session motivating and inclusive. Guests leave feeling refreshed, centered, and invigorated. No prior experience necessary. Mats are provided, but guests are welcome to bring their own mats and yoga props. Ages 13 and up; no unaccompanied minors. $20 / $16 for members. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation.

Focal Points Tour: Richard Samuel Roberts’ Columbia
Thursday, September 10 | 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Today, Richard Samuel Roberts is widely viewed as one of South Carolina’s most important photographers, but for decades after his death, he was all but forgotten. Join docent Heather Preston in the galleries for a photographic tour of Columbia as seen through Roberts’ lens — you may be surprised by what you learn. Focal Points is a series of gallery talks featuring topics and themes near and dear to the hearts of docents and staff. Free with membership or admission. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation.

Public Tour of Body Matters
Saturday, September 12 | 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Take a tour of featured exhibition Body Matters, which explores the genre of craft and its relationship to the human body through roughly 70 objects spanning time periods and cultures. Body Matters celebrates the importance of the hand in handwork and encourages viewers to consider their own relationships with objects both inside and outside the galleries. Free with membership or admission.

Gladys’ Gang Preschool Edition: Hats Off!
Wednesday, September 16 | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
From halos to hard hats, we have no shortage of headwear in the galleries. Join us as we discover what these colorful coverings can tell us before we make our own wearable works of art. Gladys’ Gang is specially designed for 4- to 5-year-old participants and their adult companions to explore art through play and inquiry. This program includes story time, gallery exploration, and a creative studio activity related to the theme. Free. Registration required for all participants as space is limited. Siblings welcome! This program is supported in part by grants from Publix Super Markets Charities and the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation.

Art Class: A Peace of Paper
Saturday, September 19 | 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Learn the peaceful process of papermaking and explore the vast possibilities of handmade paper. This meditative class covers processing natural and recycled fibers into pulps, sheet forming, and creating with inclusions such as plant material and fabric scraps. Participants focus on mindfulness through the creation of unique handmade paper artwork as well as guided slow-looking exercises in featured exhibition Body Matters. Taught by artist and educator Kat Martin. Ages 15 and up. All supplies and equipment provided. $120 / $96 for members.

Martin is an artist and educator based in South Carolina. She holds a BFA in art education from the University of South Carolina. In 2023, she was awarded the Ethel S. Brody scholarship and was funded to attend the Penland School of Craft, where she extended her artistic practice to papermaking. Martin loves to host workshops that are opportunities for creative experimentation and expression. She has exhibited artwork across the Carolinas and has taught in museums, community centers, and schools, as well as at regional and state conferences.

Stroller Tour of Body Matters
Saturday, September 19 | 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Take a tour of featured exhibition Body Matters with infants in tow! Bring your little ones along for the ride on a stroller-friendly tour for caregivers with babies up to age two. Fussy, crying, or wiggly babies welcome! Baby wearing is encouraged. Free with membership or admission. Registration required as space is limited. This program is supported in part by a grant from Publix Super Markets Charities.

Public Tour of the Collection Galleries
Sunday, September 20 | 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Explore some highlights of the CMA Collection on a guided tour. Experience art from the past and present, seeing how artists and makers are inspired by yesterday, how they view the world today, and how they envision tomorrow. Free with membership or admission. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation.

Art Class: Calligraphy 101
Tuesdays, September 22 and 29 | 6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Practice the art of lettering and develop your own unique calligraphic style in this two-session workshop. Students learn to draw each letter in a traditional script with precision and grace, explore modern calligraphy techniques, and experiment with unconventional tools, allowing creativity to flow freely. Perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Taught by designer and educator Stephanie Nace. Ages 15 and up. All supplies and equipment provided. $120 / $96 for members.

Nace holds a B.F.A. in graphic design from Penn State University and an M.F.A. in visual communication design from Kent State University. A professor in graphic design and illustration at the University of South Carolina for over 22 years, she is an award-winning designer and educator. Her research focuses on conceptual development, experimental typography, letterpress, and three-dimensional design forms. Nace also serves as the faculty coordinator and creative director of The Design Studio, a student-run, faculty-led agency.

Artist Talk: Bob Trotman
Thursday, September 24 | 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. | Doors at 6:00 p.m.
Join us for a conversation with North Carolina artist Bob Trotman, whose work is in the CMA Collection and in featured exhibition Body Matters. Working primarily in wood, Trotman has spent decades developing a sculptural practice rooted in close attention to material and driven by social observation and philosophical inquiry. Using the human figure as a recurring subject, his work explores the tensions, contradictions, and forces that shape contemporary life. In conversation with Director of Learning and Engagement Chadric Devin, Trotman reflects on the evolution of his practice, from the physical demands of working in sculpture to the ideas and questions that continue to drive his work. Drawing on themes from Body Matters, the discussion explores the relationship between artmaking and the body and how that relationship shapes both the objects created and our experience of them. Arrive early to view his art in the galleries before heading to the theater for the conversation. Q&A to follow. Light hors d’oeuvres provided. Cash bar. $35 / $25 for members.